2012-06-08

Welcome to the day of Unlikely Movie Concepts. We’ve already had Warners looking to make something from the Guinness Book Of World Records. Now comes The Mummy: Tomb Of The Dragon Emperor director Rob Cohen with an idea to turn Sir Isaac Newton into an action hero. Yes, we mean the man most famous for his work explaining universal gravitation, the three laws of motion, and writing the Principia. Earth’s most influential physicist besides Einstein. But less well publicised is the fact that he also spent time in later life as warden of the Royal Mint. During his service, he helped punish counterfeiters and developed new standards for Britain’s money. Taking a little inspiration from the historical tweaking of Abraham Lincoln: Vampire Hunter (albeit without the supernatural elements) Cohen intends to use that as the basis for an action-stacked tale of Newton as chief detective of the Mint, developing both a script to direct and a graphic novel. Working alongside new entertainment company BiteSize Entertainment, Cohen has big plans for his new idea, which co-producer Gene Kirkwood explained to The Hollywood Reporter: "We see this as a real opportunity to redefine the concept from day one, using multiple channels and outlets to more creatively develop and extend the characters and storyline while generating huge excitement in advance of the theatrical release." Word of advice: the apple thing is largely apocryphal. Cohen’s next film is Alex Cross, with Tyler Perry in the title role. It’ll be out on November 30.